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PCBs Frequently Asked Questions

Basics About PCBs in Schools

What are PCBs?

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Are PCBs found in schools?

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How are students and staff exposed to PCBs in a school building?

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Do PCBs affect the health of students and staff?

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Should I have my blood or my child's blood tested for PCBs?

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Requirements for Testing and Reducing Exposure in Schools

What are Vermont's requirements for PCBs in schools?

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Are schools required to test for PCBs?

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When will my school be tested?

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What does the score number in the schedule indicate?

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Who is responsible for testing the indoor air of schools?

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Who is responsible for making fixes to reduce exposure to PCBs?

Do schools need to pay for anything?

What happens if a school doesn't test for PCBs?

Is any follow-up or additional testing required?

Results

How long will it take to get results?

Where can I find the PCB testing results for schools?

How are results being communicated to schools?

What are School Action Levels (SAL) for PCBs in indoor air, and what do they mean?

What are the Immediate Action Levels (IAL) for PCBs in indoor air, and what do they mean?

What happens if results are below the school action level?

What happens if PCBs are found at or above the school action level?

Why is it okay for students and staff to stay in rooms that are above the school action level?

Frequently Asked Questions for School Facility Managers and Maintenance Staff

Why is caulk a potential source of PCB exposure?

How many schools and other buildings built or renovated before 1980 may have PCB-containing caulk?

Are PCBs present in paint used in schools and other buildings built or renovated before 1980?

What are examples of secondary sources of PCBs?

What do we know about PCB concentrations in the soils surrounding schools and other buildings constructed or renovated using PCB-containing building materials?

What can be done to reduce PCB exposures in buildings?

Questions? If you have questions about PCBs in schools, please email SOV.PCBSampling@vermont.gov

A PDF version of the Frequently Asked Questions is available.